JAMESTOWN, NY - Jamestown Community College's Michael Gilbert (Roscrea, Ireland / Colaiste Phobal Ros Cre') is continuing his academic and athletic careers at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire.

"I chose Plymouth because the coach is very experienced at the school and in the sport. Their soccer program has a lot of internationals, which is rare at D3. It is a school where I can grow and play," said Gilbert.

As a team captain, Gilbert played an integral role on the men's soccer team despite injuries limiting him to 15 games during his time as a Jayhawk.

"It taught me a lot of lessons about how hard you have to work to become even just a team player, let alone a starting player. It gave me the foundations, not just as an athlete, but as a person to become better in all aspects of life," he added.

Aside from his athletic additions to JCC, the Irishman carried a 3.65 GPA and plans to double major in accounting and finance at Plymouth State.

"When I first came to JCC, I had no clue about what I wanted to do. JCC geared me toward the path of accounting due to the great teachers here. It showed me that accounting is what I want to do for some of my life," mentioned Gilbert.

Gilbert scored a pair of goals for JCC, but his favorite memory in the green and gold came from the sidelines.

"Beating Niagara in our first year. Shane Bennett scored a long-range goal. It was the most intense of all our games, and the whole place erupted when we won," said an excited Gilbert.

While Michael loved his time at JCC, even winning a pair of awards at the annual athletic banquet, he is ready to see more of what America has to offer.

"I am looking forward to a simple change of scenery. Being from Ireland, I am looking forward to seeing more of the United States. I will be near Boston, and there is a huge Irish population in the area," he added with a smile.

Being so far away from home, Michael was a mainstay inside the JCC Physical Education Complex, where he fostered bonds with many of the athletic staff, even outside of soccer.

"I want to thank my mom and dad for all their support. As well as my uncles, who have always been really good to me. At JCC, I would like to thank coach Pat Anderson and coach Jesse Da Costa and our athletic staff, Greg Vorse, David Boyd, Ashley Lund, and George Sisson. Lastly, the reslife staff for all they've done for me," said an appreciative Gilbert.

Gilbert and the rest of the Plymouth State Panthers open the 2025 season in August.